Whatcom County
2024 Health Care Guide
pe acehe alth.org/expert-c are
Dear Reader,
It’s more important than ever to take care of your overall health. It’s a great time to stick to (or create new) healthy habits and consult with health care professionals when you have questions or concerns.
Our 2024 Whatcom County Health Care Guide contains unique content supplied by local health care providers and wellness professionals. The Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record have joined in obtaining the information available in this magazine.
This guide should not be used as a substitute for advice from a medical professional, but it may help readers learn how to seek advice and from whom. This directory provides general information and is not intended to replace your own doctor’s advice. Enjoy your reading!
Thank you, &
PeaceHealth Medical Group
PeaceHealth Lynden Clinic:
Providing an array of healthcare services to north, east Whatcom County communities
The early reviews are in: PeaceHealth’s new Lynden Clinic is a hit!
The clinic, which opened to patients on April 15, is providing much-needed primary and specialty care services to north and east Whatcom County residents, close to home.
The 22,500-square-foot, single-story clinic is located at 8844 Benson Road, in north Lynden. With family medicine, pediatrics, same-day care, orthopedics, cardiology, behavioral health and obstetrics/gynecology/midwifery, the facility significantly expands healthcare options and access for local residents.
On-site lab services and imaging—including mammograms—are also available in partnership with Quest Diagnostics and Mount Baker Imaging.
As of June 1, the Family Medicine team had seen 697 patients, Pediatrics 269 and Same-Day 428. A combined total of 795 patients have received care at one or more of the specialty-care clinics.
The collective Lynden Clinic total since April 15 is 2,189.
“Patients are telling us how much they appreciate having such a wide range of healthcare services right here in Lynden,” said Arielle Serianni, manager of primary care. “Most local residents previously had to drive down to Bellingham for most if not all of their medical appointments.”
She added, “They also really love the way the building looks and feels – all the natural light and thoughtful, attractive design touches. Our caregivers feel the same way. The space is so well-designed for collaboration and efficiency, in addition to being really beautiful.”
PeaceHealth Medical Group
The Lynden Clinic is the first PeaceHealth facility with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, the most widely used green building rating system. Construction and design elements demonstrate a framework for a healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green building that offers environmental, social and economic benefits.
• In addition to employing local construction labor, PeaceHealth used rock from local quarries, timber from nearby sawmills and doors from a local manufacturer.
• More than 160 solar panels on the roof help offset 28 percent of annual energy needs with clean, green power.
• The clinic provides free EV charging to patients and staff to help everyone improve fuel economy and lower fuel costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Stormwater run-off is diverted into a bioswale to filter out pollutants before it reaches local waterways.
• The landscape emphasizes efficient irrigation and the use of native and drought-resistant plant species to reduce water consumption and maintenance requirements. Plants are well-suited to Whatcom County and contribute to biodiversity preservation.
The new clinic will eventually employ about 50 caregivers and providers and serve 150 to 200 patients daily.
To learn more, visit peacehealth.org/lynden.
Regaining Balance: Physical Therapists Offer Relief for Dizziness
Dizziness is a common problem that affects somewhere between 15% and 20% of people each year. It significantly impacts daily life, causing feelings of unsteadiness, lightheadedness, or sensations of the room spinning. Not only can these symptoms be alarming, they can significantly hinder the ability to complete even basic tasks. The good news is that dizziness often has treatable causes. The fact that physical therapists can be a key player in treating dizziness surprises a lot of people
Understanding dizziness:
Dizziness isn't a specific disease, but a symptom with various origins. Inner ear issues are a frequent culprit, but vision problems, neck or muscle issues, migraines, blood pressure changes, head injuries, and neurological problems can also contribute
What do physical therapists have to do with dizziness?
PTs are known as movement and musculoskeletal experts, but they frequently treat balance problems as well. That's how they play a role in the treatment of dizziness. Balance relies on a complex interplay between the inner ear, vision, and sensory input from your joints. When this information becomes conflicting, the brain struggles to interpret it, leading to a feeling of dizziness or vertigo.
Physical therapists assess all these systems to pinpoint the underlying cause of dizziness. This tailored approach leads to an effective treatment plan. That plan might include:
● Exercises: These might be designed to improve balance, strengthen specific muscles, or retrain the brain to process sensory information correctly. This could involve gaze stabilization exercises to help the brain and vision work together, habituation exercises to desensitize the brain to certain triggers, and balance training on various surfaces.
● Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers (CRM): If benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the culprit, specific maneuvers can reposition tiny crystals within the ear canal, alleviating vertigo. Patients are also often taught to perform these maneuvers at home
● Education: PTs teach patients about strategies to manage dizziness, and exercises they can independently perform. Additionally, therapists can help modify activities that trigger dizziness or teach ways to work through them
Dizziness can stop people in their tracks. However physical therapists offer effective treatment options to get people moving again. PT helps patients regain balance, perform daily activities with confidence, and reduce the risk of falls.
If balance or dizziness is affecting you, reach out to us at Lynden Family Physical Therapy. We can help you get back to the life and activities you love www.LyndenFamilyPhysicalTherapy.com
See our ad and team on the back cover
Lamphere Insurance
We are dedicated to helping each person choose insurance plans that meet their needs. You likely have someone close to you who appreciates our friendly, experienced customer service. We hope that you will ask for their endorsement and we look forward to welcoming you to our family!
What are the benefits of choosing Lamphere Insurance versus signing up online or talking to someone over the phone? You will receive our incomparable customer care!
• Our full-service office in Lynden has helped thousands of Medicare recipients, assisting with signing up for Original Medicare, enrolling in Medicare insurance plan(s), resolving claims, and following up with questions & concerns.
• When you call us, you will speak with someone trustworthy and committed to helping you. We will not send you through a maze of menu choices or lengthy hold times, nor re-route you through multiple departments to reach someone who may help.
• You are never charged a fee for easy access to our highly qualified staff! Your premium cost is exactly the same as online or by phone, with the added benefit of our expertise in a face-to-face meeting.
I’m turning 65 soon and I received a letter from my doctor’s office. Do I have to use the insurance agency they mention, or can you help me? YES, we can help you!
We represent most of the Medicare insurance plans available in our state and we offer a variety of options that are accepted by your Medicare-approved providers of choice: doctors, hospitals, clinics, and groups such as Lynden Family Medicine/FCN, PeaceHealth, Optum Care WA, and other medical practices in and out of our immediate service area. We look forward to serving you!
Guided Solutions (formerly VibrantUSA)
Guided Solutions is an independent insurance agency specializing in Medicare and Individual health insurance. Because we are independent, our only mission is to help you find the insurance coverage that best fits your needs, preferences, and budget. We work with many different insurance carriers that offer Medicare Advantage, Supplement/Medigap, and Prescription Drug Plans so our clients have a variety of different plan options to choose from. Whether you know us as VibrantUSA or Guided Solutions, you can still expect the same fantastic service from our local licensed agents.
1. Things to consider when researching Medicare Insurance options.
a. Doctors & Clinics – Does your Primary Care Doctor and Specialists accept your plan?
b. Medications – Does your plan cover your prescriptions?
c. Added benefits – Does your plan offer dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, etc.?
2. What are the benefits of working with Guided Solutions?
a. We have been specializing in Medicare insurance since 2003 and we represent the majority of Medicare insurance plans available in Washington.
b. Our agents are licensed, highly trained, experienced and experts in their field.
c. Our agents are independent and will offer unbiased advice to help find the plan that fits your needs.
Family Care Network
What is family medicine?
Often referred to as “primary care”, family medicine offers comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families through all ages and stages of life.
Family medicine providers are trained in a broad spectrum of specialty knowledge so most health concerns can be effectively managed by one care team. This includes acute illness or injury, management of chronic conditions, OB and newborn care, and many common procedures. We also offer onsite lab services, behavioral health, and local clinic locations for sports medicine and urgent care.
As family medicine providers, we place a special emphasis on preventive measures to help you stay well, such as health screenings, immunizations and education to make healthy lifestyle choices. As your partner in health, we will also coordinate with other specialists whenever needed and remain an active partner in your care.
With family medicine, patients benefit from a trusted, ongoing relationship that is built over time. We treat the whole person to promote well-being while empowering patients to make informed healthcare decisions and live their best, healthy life.
Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
Providing comprehensive digestive healthcare. Visit our state-of-the-art facility in Barkley Village at 3111 Woburn Street.
WHAT DO WE DO AT NW GASTRO/ENDO?
At Northwest Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, we promote digestive health and ensure the well-being of our community We offer expert care for prevention and management of diseases of the digestive tract. Some of the most common issues we treat are:
· Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a common condition with a wide range of presenting symptoms We can modify the gut-brain axis. Biofeedback and medicines can be used for treatment.
amounts When it occurs too frequently, patients can develop complications such as the esophagus. We can perform diagnostic tests and offer treatments to control this.
Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis have become more common over the past few decades We have expertise in diagnosis and management of these conditions
· Cirrhosis and Liver Disease: Liver disease can be related to infections, autoimmune processes, metabolic disease and more. Management is a combination of addressing these causes and preventing future complications.
· Colon cancer prevention
The Vital Role of Colonoscopy in Colorectal Cancer Screening When detected early, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. The cornerstone of early detection is colonoscopy.
· What is a Colonoscopy? A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which with a tiny camera to examine the entire
colon. This comprehensive examination allows for the detection and removal of polyps, which are precancerous growths that can lead to colorectal cancer
· When Should You Get a Colonoscopy? Colorectal cancer screening guidelines recommend that individuals at average risk should begin colonoscopy screenings at the age of 45. Earlier screening is suggested if there are risk factors. Your gastroenterologist will help determine the appropriate timing for your screenings.
· What is the Screening Process like? The procedure itself typically takes around 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. You will be sedated to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
A colonoscopy is not only a powerful screening tool but also a preventive one. If polyps are discovered during the procedure, they can be removed on the colorectal cancer
Why Choose NW Gastro/Endo?
Northwest Gastroenterology was founded in 1979 and is the largest gastroenterology group in Whatcom County, with 10 physicians and 4 advanced practitioners (ARNP, PA-C) We offer in-person clinic visits, telehealth appointments, and a physician managed infusion suite and endoscopy center, all located at our new facility in Barkley Village We also maintain privileges at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center To ensure the highest quality care, we have incorporated arti cial intelligence algorithms for polyp detection, and we participate in the GIQuiC national registry, a program dedicated to continuous improvement in GI health care performance. Our staff of over 100 people are fully dedicated to ensuring your digestive health.
PHYSICIANS
Jash Bansal, MD
Alison Freeman, MD
Donald Gullickson, MD
Kelly McCullough, MD
Gregory Munson, MD
Kristina Ross, MD
Benjamin Siemanowski, MD
Dylan Stanfield, MD
Rinad Tabbalat, MD
Todd Witte, MD
ADVANCED PRACTITIONERS
Megan Britson, PA-C
Kristin Page, ARNP
Elizabeth Waltman, PA-C
Darla Woolman, PA-C
Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
New address: 3111 Woburn St., Bellingham 360.734.1420, nwgastroendo.com
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN EXTREME HEAT THREATENS
Prepare NOW
Be Safe DURING
Find places in your community where you can go to get cool.
Try to keep your home cool:
• Cover windows with drapes or shades.
• Weather-strip doors and windows.
• Use window reflectors such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard to reflect heat back outside.
• Add insulation to keep the heat out.
• Use a powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, to regulate the heat level of a building’s attic by clearing hot air.
• Install window air conditioners and insulate around them.
Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness. For more information visit: www.cdc.gov/disasters/ extremeheat/warning.html
Never leave a child, adult, or animal alone inside a vehicle on a warm day.
Find places with air conditioning. Libraries, shopping malls, and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat.
If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
Wear loose, lightweight, lightcolored clothing.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor what would be best.
Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees. You could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature.
Avoid high-energy activities.
Check yourself, family members, and neighbors for signs of heatrelated illness.
Take an Active Role in Your Safety
Go to Ready.gov/heat. Download the FEMA app to get more information about preparing for extreme heat.
FEMA V-1004
Recognize
+ RESPOND
Know the signs and ways to treat heat-related illness.
Heat Cramps
• Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs.
• Actions: Go to a cooler location. Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.
Heat Exhaustion
• Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting.
• Actions: Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.
Heat Stroke
• Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) indicated by an oral thermometer; red, hot, and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; confusion; and unconsciousness.
• Actions: Call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.
Treating Influenza (Flu)
Information for People at High Risk for Serious Flu Complications
Can flu be treated?
Do you have Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Diabetes, or Heart Disease?
If so, you are at high risk of serious illness if you get flu. Treatment with an influenza antiviral drug can mean the difference between having milder illness instead of very serious illness that could result in a hospital stay. This fact sheet provides information about using prescription antiviral drugs to treat influenza in people at high risk for serious flu complications.
Why am I at greater risk of serious flu complications?
Your medical condition makes it more likely that you will get complications from flu, like pneumonia. Flu also can make long-term health problems worse, even if they are well-managed. People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart failure may experience worsening of their conditions and have difficulty breathing. Diabetes (type 1 and 2) can make the immune system less able to fight flu. Also, flu illness can raise blood sugar levels.
Yes. There are prescription medications called “antiviral drugs” that can be used to treat influenza illness. Antiviral drugs fight influenza viruses in your respiratory tract. They are different from antibiotics, which fight against bacterial infections.
What should I do if I think I have flu?
Check with your doctor promptly if you are in a group at high risk for serious complications and you get flu symptoms. Symptoms of flu can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. If you get flu, antiviral drugs are a treatment option. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat your flu illness.
Should
I still get a flu vaccine?
Yes. Antiviral drugs are not a substitute for getting a flu vaccine. While flu vaccines can vary in how they work, flu vaccination is the first and best way to prevent influenza. You should receive flu vaccine every year. Antiviral drugs are a second line of defense to treat flu if you get sick.
What are the benefits of antiviral drugs?
Antiviral treatment works best when started within two days of getting symptoms. Antiviral drugs can lessen fever and other symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by about one day. They also can prevent serious flu complications, like pneumonia when treatment is started early.
For people at high risk of serious flu complications, early treatment with an antiviral drug can mean the difference between having a milder illness instead of a more serious illness that could result in a hospital stay. For adults hospitalized with flu illness, some studies have reported that early antiviral treatment can reduce the risk of death.
What antiviral drugs are recommended?
There are four FDA-approved influenza antiviral drugs recommended by CDC: oseltamivir (available as a generic version or under the trade name Tamiflu®), zanamivir (trade name Relenza®), peramivir (trade name Rapivab®), and baloxavir marboxil (trade name Xofluza®). Oseltamivir is available as a pill or liquid, and zanamivir is a powder that is inhaled. Peramivir is administered intravenously by a health care provider. Baloxavir is a pill given as a single dose by mouth.
VanDalen Enterprises
When can I apply for individual & family health insurance for 2025 if we do not qualify for a special enrollment?
For individual and family health insurance, the open enrollment for 2025 is November 1st 2024 thru December 15th 2024. Your coverage will take effect January 1st 2025.
What qualifies me for a special enrollment period (SEP) to apply for individual & family health insurance for 2024 outside of the open enrollment period?
A. If you have had a loss of coverage for any of the following reasons and you apply within 60 days of that loss you may be eligible for an effective date outside of open enrollment:
• Loss of employer sponsored coverage
• No longer eligible for Medicaid or a public health plan
• Permanent change of residence in an area that your existing plan does not offer coverage
• Birth or adoption of a child
• Loss of coverage on a group plan due to age
• Marriage or dissolution of marriage
Lynden Human Life
Lynden Human Life has a mission statement to “restore the rights of the unborn”. We promote and protect the most vulnerable of all citizens; the unborn.
If you need pregnancy support and are facing a crisis pregnancy please reach out to us at 1-888-399-life. For women needing housing and resources you can contact New Way Ministries at 360-354-9930. #everyhumanlifecounts
• Washington Healthplan nder Coverage for individuals & families
• Individual & Family direct purchase plans
• Small group employer plans
• Travel Medical Insurance
• Medadvantage & Medicare Supplement plans
• Long term care
Whatcom County
We provide the services that enable you to Stay in YOUR home, with the care YOU want, when YOU want it.
For over 40 years, we have provided solutions for your in-home care needs through Skilled In-home Caregiving services, Professional Client Advocacy and Family Education. Our services include housekeeping, meal prep, transportation and med-reminders. We also provide assistance with personal care, bathing, toileting and ambulation as well as specialized dementia care, companionship and safety/supervision. Call today for your free home care needs assessment.
Silverado Bellingham
Quality of Life with Dementia is Possible rough life-enriching care and a highly-skilled staff, Silverado offers flexible care tailored to the changing needs of individuals with memory impairment and their families. Schedule a visit and see what can happen when clinical excellence and compassion meet. (360) 746-6675
silverado.com/bellingham Lic. #2386
(360) 738-2500
Supporting the independence, dignity, and health of community members in northwestern Washington.
Your Connection to Community Resources Confidential and Free of Charge.
Aging and Disability Resources provides information and assistance with access to services to adults age 60 and over, people of any age with disabilities, and friends and family members on behalf of clients. Contact us for information and assistance on: Medicare/Medicaid, Long-Term Care, Caregiver Support, Housing, In-Home Care, Medical/Dental, Legal Options, Prescription Assistance, and more.
Clear Water Systems
FIND OUT WHAT’S IN YOUR WATER with Clearwater Systems.
Whether you have city water or well water, understanding what is in your water can help protect your family and your home.
Since many contaminants can’t be detected by human senses, trust your local Kinetico water professional to test your water for FREE.
Experience the benefits of having the best water in your home, guaranteed!
Water that tastes better, works better in your plumbing and appliances, and makes your skin and clothes feel better is the Kinetico difference!
For more information, call 360-354-2121 or visit clearwatersystems.com. Clearwater Systems is your authorized, independent, Kinetico dealer.
Echo Valley Adult Daycare & Respite
Echo Valley Respite is a great alternative for people taking care of their loved ones and need a respite, for those recovering from orthopedic or other surgical procedures and do not need to go to skilled nursing, and for any one that would like their loved one to receive care in a loving, family home.
Unity Care NW is accepting Children’s Dental Patients Now!
Why is regular dental care for kids important?
According to the Washington State Department of Health more than half of all third graders and almost 38% of kindergartners have active tooth decay. Untreated tooth decay can lead to toothaches, difficulty speaking, chewing, swallowing, sleep problems, and higher rates of chronic disease as adults. Identifying problems early is critical to help kids grow up healthy.
What can you do to improve your child’s oral health?
• Take your child to the dentist for a fluoride varnish and sealants. A fluoride varnish is a concentrated form of fluoride that is painted on teeth, and can also lower tooth decay by about one-third. Sealants are protective coatings that can prevent 80 percent of cavities.
• Call Unity Care NW at (360) 676-6177 to schedule a dental examination with one of our Dental Providers.
Mt. Baker Vision Clinic
The doctors and staff at Mt. Baker Vision Clinic are proud to provide state-of-the-art eyecare. Utilizing the latest in technology and procedures, we pride ourselves in providing you with the best experience possible.
While visiting our clinics, you will be treated with courtesy and respect. Our focus is to maintain a lifetime of good vision for you, your family, and your friends in a professional, comfortable, and caring environment.
Mt. Baker Vision Clinic is one clinic with three locations within Whatcom County. We are accepting new patients and offer vision care for the whole family.
We have a particular love for specialty contact lenses for patients with astigmatism and near-vision difficulties, or children. We also offer the necessary technology to detect and manage eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts.
Check out our fun new and exclusive MBVC frame line, designed right here in the Pacific Northwest, boasting exceptional quality and fun unique designs!
We look forward to serving you for decades to come!
Dr. Hannah Joyner Dr. Brian Koning Dr. Steven Koning Dr. Jeff Larson Dr. Jeff Ness
Miracle Ear Bellingham
Who owns the Miracle-Ear office?
Bellingham’s Miracle-Ear is independently owned and operated.
Monte Mahan, a Nationally Board-Certified Hearing Aid Specialist, has been the local owner and specialist for 21 years. Monte’s son Mo is also a Hearing Aid Specialist and works in the office.
What is Miracle-Ear?
Miracle-Ear is a 75-year-old company, making it the oldest name brand in hearing aids.
Not only are they the oldest, but they are also the largest network system in the United States with over 1,500 offices nationwide!
If you own a Miracle-Ear hearing aid, free service is provided nationwide for life.
How common is hearing loss?
Approximately 48 million people have a hearing problem. The rate of hearing loss triples between the age of 50 and 60. About 1 in 3 people over 65 have hearing loss of some kind.
What happens at a hearing test?
First your outer ear canal and eardrum are examined using a video otoscope. You will see inside for yourself. Then your individual hearing requirements are measured inside of a soundbooth using an audiometer. If a hearing loss is detected, the results are used as your personal prescription to setup a pair of DEMO hearing aids. You will be able to see how your exact needs can be helped all in one visit.
How do I schedule a FREE hearing test?
Call 360-647-9162.
Are the hearing aids guaranteed?
100% Satisfaction is Guaranteed. Most products have a 3-Year manufacturer’s warranty and 3-Year loss & damage coverage. Not only that but your four month checkups, annual testing and represcribing is free for the life of the hearing aids. The aftercare is extremely important to getting your best hearing possible.
Where are you located?
Inside Bakerview Square:
410 W Bakerview Rd Ste 113, Bellingham WA
Do you accept insurance?
FREE Hearing Test
410 W Bakerview Rd, Ste 113
WA
(360) 647-9162 • M-F 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
We accept and can submit all professional claims including but not limited to: Regence, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Premera, Kaiser Permanente, Uniform Medical, Humana, or State and Self Insured L&I Claims.
